The RFplanning for 5G NR is quite challenging as compared to legacy networks due to the introduction of advanced new technologies: mmWave frequencies, flexible numerology and Massive MIMO (M-MIMO) etc. This course takes a deep dive into the technical insights necessary for the radio network planning both in the the mid-band and mm-wave spectrum. The 5G RF design and planning process is discussed both from the perspective of the system coverage and capacity objectives.

The course covers the following important topic:

Section 1: Introduction to 5G Planning
5G Frequency Bands
Most Popular 5G Bands for Deployment
Subcarrier Spacing Vs Cell Size
5G FDD TDD Modes-SUL and SDL Frequency Bands
Advantages of TDD Deployment
Steps in 5G Cellular RF Planning

Section 2: 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) Dimensioning
What is Coverage Dimensioning?
What is Path Loss and Propagation Path loss Models?
3GPP Propagation Models
-RMa (Rural Macro)
-UMa (Urban Macro)
-UMi (Urban Micro)
Propagation Models before 5G
-Okumara-Hata Model
-Walfisch Ikegami
-Sakagami Kuboi Models
Selection Criteria for Selection Of PL Model
Maximum Allowable Path Loss (MAPL)
Cell Area, Intersite Distance and Required Number of cells Calculation
Link Budget Equation
Factors affecting LInk Budget
- Building Penetration Loss
- Foliage (Vegetation) Loss
- Rain Fade Margin
- Body Block Loss
- Interference Margin
- Shadow Fading Margin (SFM) and Location Probability
- Shadow Fading Margin Vs Cell Size
- Shadow Fading Standard Deviation Values for Propagation Models & SFM calculation
- Effect of Active Antenna Unit (AAU) on Link Budget
Capacity Dimensioning
Traffic Model and KPIs for capacity DImensioning
Capacity Dimensioning Calculation

Section 3: Propagation Model Tuning
Propagation Model Tuning Steps
Drive Test Preparation And Procedure
Drive Test Measurements
The Standard Propagation Model Used in Model Tuning
Setting K1 and K2 coefficients
Diffraction Loss Multiplier Coefficient K4
Clutter Loss Coefficient K_clutter
Measuring goodness of Model Tuning
Model Tuning Example from Atoll RF Planning Tool

Section 4: Nominal (Detailed Simulation) Planning
Inputs & Outputs of 5G Coverage Planning Simulation
3D Ray Tracing Model
Electronic Maps For RF Planning And Their Basic Formats
3D Electronic Map Types: DTM, DLU, DHM and 3D Vector
Coverage Planning & Plots: Composite Plot, Dominance Maps, Overlapping Zone Plot
3D Coverage Prediction
Monte Carlo (Dynamic) Simulations
Defining New Services in Planning Tool
Defining User Profiles, Gerographical User Density and Traffic Distribution
Simulation Methodology for Monte-Carlo Simulations
Detailed Coverage and Capacity Prediction Maps

Section 5: 5G NRBeam Planning
5G NR Beam Classification
Static Beams
Dynamic Beams
Broadcast Beam Coverage Scenarios
Scenario Selection Of Broadcast Beams

Section 6: 5G Downtilt Planning
Antenna Tilt Types
-Mechanical Tilt
-Electrical Tilt
-Preset Electrical Tilt
-Mechanical Tilt
Total 5G Beam Downtilt
Same Coverage of SSB and CSI-RSRP Beams
5G RF Downtilt Planning Principles

Section 7: Detailed Parameter Planning: Physical Cell ID (PCI) Planning
PCI Collision Free Principle
PCI Confusion Free Principle
Minimizing PCI Planning Impact On Network Performance
PCI Mod 3 Staggering for PSS
PCI Mod 4 Staggering For DMRS on PBCH
PCI Mod 30 Staggering For DMRS on PUSCH, PUCCH and SRS

Section 8: Detailled Parameter Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) Planning
Preamble Sequence Formats
Steps in PRACH Planning
Select PRACH Format
Calculate Number of Cyclic Shifts Ncs Cell Radius
Calculate Number of Preambles Per RSI
Calculate Number of RSIs per cell and RSI groups